|
MedPanel Investigates PhRMA Code on Interactions With Healthcare Professionals.
Cambridge, MA (September 25, 2002) – The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) has recently implemented a new policy to govern the pharmaceutical industry’s relationships with physicians and other healthcare professionals. The new PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals is expected to have a significant impact on the marketing methods of the pharmaceutical industry.
MedPanel, a Cambridge based medical research and communications company, was interested in what marketing executives thought of the new guidelines and conducted qualitative research via an online focus group discussion. Executives were recruited from various pharmaceutical companies, and were asked to voice their opinions on the subject.
The study was conducted online and panelist’s identities were concealed.
The key findings from the discussion included:
Panelists identified the various reasons for which the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals was proposed and implemented.
Many panelists felt the broadly worded PhRMA Code has created room for individual and company interpretation, and therefore the need for sufficient latitude with this new ethical code now in effect was addressed.
With the rapid increase of dollars spent in the pharmaceutical industry, all panelists are taking the new ethical guidelines very seriously and are committed to its implementation and enforcement.
Panelists addressed existing concerns for responsibility, noncompliance of other companies, and policing behavior with respect to the new PhRMA Code. Panelists recognized the difficulty in mandating a voluntary code and viewing ethical behavior as a legal requirement, which created apprehension for all, especially when considering the outcome of noncompliant companies.
Possible changes in the pharmaceutical industry.
Please contact Erin Sheehan ( erin.sheehan@medpanel.com ) at MedPanel for the full report
About MedPanel
MedPanel provides qualitative and quantitative primary research, high-impact targeted marketing methodologies, and in-depth medical market trend analysis to clients in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. These services provide companies with an economical and rapid method of obtaining valued opinions and comprehensive research. MedPanel specializes in thought leader access, and has a database of over 2000 medical experts in virtually all therapeutic specialties in the US and abroad.
For more information see www.medpanel.com, or call Erin Sheehan, 617-661-8080 x29.